Darling River – Environmental Flush Event – 28 June Update
For more information, view the community update below or visit Northern to southern Basin environmental flow protection trial
View previous updates:
Archive for month: June, 2024
Darling River – Environmental Flush Event – 24 June Update
The flush of 45 GL from the upper Menindee Lakes through the lower Darling-Baaka River to help clear the blue-green algae has been completed. The results show a significant decrease in blue green algae. Currently, the sites at Tolarno, Pooncarie, Burtundy, and Ellerslie in the Lower Darling Baaka river are on amber alert after two consecutive samplings. However, the sites at Tapio, upstream Pomona, and Pomona at the Boat Ramp need another sampling to lift the red alert.
Current alerts
NSW environmental water is currently being used to maintain a flow target of 400ML/day in the Darling at Weir 32. This is double the required minimum of 200ML/day for this time of year. The higher baseflow aims to maximise native fish recruitment particularly for Murray cod and maintain basic ecosystem functions.
Lock 10 at Wentworth will remain lower for another week as not all of the flush water has pushed through.
492 GL of inflows have already been received into the Lakes since the start of 2024. 30 – 70 GL is expected in the next 2 months.
For more information, view the community update below or visit Northern to southern Basin environmental flow protection trial
View previous updates:
Junction Island Bridge & Footpath to re-open Saturday 29 June 2024
Wentworth Shire Council is pleased to announce the long-awaited re-opening of the Junction Island Bridge and footpath on Saturday 29 June 2024. This milestone arrives just in time for the Wentworth Junction Rally on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 July, an iconic event Council has supported since its inception in 1992. The rally has not been held since 2017 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and floods, making the 2024 event a significant occasion for the community.
Wentworth Shire Council extends its gratitude to the Department of Regional NSW for funding this project. Additionally, Council acknowledges the unwavering support and dedication of the Great Murray Darling Junction Interpretative Facility Inc members, whose efforts have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life over the years.
The new bridge and footpath significantly improves the accessibility to Junction Island, allowing residents and visitors to explore this unique natural environment once again. Spanning over 1,100 metres, the footpath features informative signage that highlights the rich ecological and cultural significance of Junction Island. This development not only promotes outdoor recreation but also stands as a major drawcard for Wentworth tourism, encouraging people to reconnect with nature.
Councillor Daniel Linklater, Mayor of Wentworth Shire Council, stated, “The re-opening of the Junction Island Bridge and footpath is a great outcome for our community. This project not only restores access to one of our region’s most stunning natural treasures but also re-establishes a major tourist attraction that will invigorate our local economy. We are thrilled to welcome visitors back to experience the beauty and rich cultural heritage of Junction Island. This is a proud moment for Wentworth Shire, and we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy what this amazing landmark has to offer.”
Council invites everyone to join in celebrating this remarkable achievement and to experience the beauty and tranquillity of Junction Island firsthand.
Darling River – Environmental Flush Event
The NSW Government flush of 45GL from the upper Menindee Lakes through the lower Darling River commenced on 29 May to help clear the current infestation of blue-green algae impacting local communities. Releases for the pulse will be complete on Wednesday 19 June.
Community assistance required
In addition to river water quality monitoring, DCCEEW are requesting daily images from landowners along the Darling River over the next three week period to assist with confirming the effectiveness of the flush trial and aid in the reporting of daily water quality testing.
Council encourages community members residing or with ready access to the Darling River to photograph the state of the river and algal blooms. Photographers will need to ensure that images are taken at the same location at approximately the same time each day. Images with details of the photographer and exact location along the Darling River can be sent via email to water.enquiries@dpie.nsw.gov.au
For more information, view the community update and WaterNSW Media Release below or visit Northern to southern Basin environmental flow protection trial
View previous updates:
Lower speed limits in Wentworth town centre to boost pedestrian safety
The speed limit on the Silver City Highway and six local roads in the Wentworth town centre will be reduced to create a safer environment for pedestrians and motorists.
Transport for NSW conducted a review of a 650-metre section of the Silver City Highway where it passes through Wentworth CBD – along with Darling, Helena, Sandwych, Adams, Wharf and Adelaide streets – to determine if a high pedestrian activity area should be established.
Transport for NSW Regional Director West Alistair Lunn said Wentworth Shire Council had requested the review which was carried out in accordance with state speed zoning standards, with a particular emphasis on pedestrian access, safety and community amenity.
“The Silver City Highway is an important western freight route linking Broken Hill, Mildura and beyond, while Wentworth sits on a tourist route as one of the key locations to access the Mungo National Park and other destinations in far west NSW,” Mr Lunn said.
“The highway through Wentworth attracts a lot of traffic, including many heavy vehicles, and is also a busy pedestrian area right in the centre of town.
“The review found the introduction of a high pedestrian activity area with a 40 km/h speed limit for all vehicles would boost safety for all road users and pedestrians in the area. The speed on the highway section of the review area will see a 20 km/h reduction from the existing 60 km/h limit.
“The high pedestrian area will also be expanded to include six local roads – Darling, Helena, Sandwych, Adams, Wharf and Adelaide streets – to recognise the town centre’s popularity as a gathering place for local residents and tourists.”
The new speed limits will come into effect on Thursday 20 June and new signage will be installed to advise motorists and pedestrians of the changes.
“The speed zone change will have a minimal impact on travel times for motorists passing through Wentworth but will deliver a great safety boost for road users and pedestrians in the area,” Mr Lunn said.
Members of the community can sign up here to receive the latest updates on speed limits changes in their nominated area and to have their say on speed limits.
The above Media Release has been sourced from the Transport for NSW website.
Stay safe this winter
NSW Health is reminding people that outdoor heaters and barbeques should never be used indoors.
Outdoor heaters and barbeques make carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas you can’t see, taste, or smell. When it builds up inside your home, carbon monoxide gas can kill without warning.
What are common sources?
Common sources of carbon monoxide include barbeques, charcoal briquettes and grills, outdoor heaters, gas lanterns, tools with small gasoline engines (such as pressure washers or concrete saws), and engine exhausts (from a car and boat).
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Common symptoms include:
•headache
•nausea and stomach pain
•vomiting
•dizziness
•weakness
•fainting
•confusion
•tiredness.
Extended exposure can cause:
•loss of consciousness
•seizure
•permanent brain injury
•death.
Symptoms of poisoning get worse with prolonged exposure.
What should be done in suspected exposure?
For advice on any suspected or confirmed carbon monoxide poisoning, call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26. In an emergency, dial Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance. Remember, carbon monoxide is highly toxic. Take care not to expose yourself when helping others. If exposure to carbon monoxide has occurred inside, go outside to call for assistance. More information and resources are available on the NSW Health website at www.health.nsw.gov.au/COpoisoning
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety: A Vital Guide For Your Home
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety: A Vital Guide For Your Home
Lithium-ion batteries are the fastest growing fire risk in NSW. Fire and Rescue NSW wants members of the NSW community to understand the risks and be prepared if things go wrong.
Preparation is key:
•Ensure functioning smoke alarms where batteries are charged or stored.
•Charge batteries on non-flammable surfaces like concrete floors, avoiding beds or sofas.
•Large batteries should only be charged in well-ventilated areas like garages or sheds.
Charging Caution:
•Never charge batteries unattended or when sleeping.
•Disconnect devices once fully charged.
•Avoid using and charging devices on flammable surfaces or if damaged.
Charging Essentials:
•Use only approved chargers with the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark.
•Beware of compatibility issues with chargers.
Safe Disposal:
•Never dispose of damaged batteries in regular waste bins.
•Use designated battery recycling drop-off points.
Warning Signs:
•Dispose of damaged batteries promptly to mitigate fire risks.
•By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your home and community from Lithium-ion battery-related fires. Stay informed, stay safe.
For more information visit fire.nsw.gov.au/befiresafe
Be Fire Safe: Essential Tips to Protect Your Home
Be Fire Safe: Essential Tips to Protect Your Home
Did you know that almost half of all residential fires start in the kitchen? It’s a sobering statistic, but with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk.
Fire and Rescue NSW is asking the community to familiarise and follow these essential kitchen fire safety tips:
•Keep children away from cooking areas and consider installing stove guards.
•Heat cooking oil slowly in the right-sized saucepan to avoid splatters.
•Turn pot and pan handles inwards to prevent accidental knocks.
•Regularly clean stove grills, range hood filters, and kitchen appliances.
•Install a fire extinguisher and blanket, located at least 1 meter from the stove.
•Use non-slip mats around the stove and sink area.
•If a fire occurs, switch off the appliances, leave, and call 000 from a safe place.
Practice these precautions to ensure a safe and secure kitchen environment for you and your family.
For more information visit fire.nsw.gov.au/befiresafe
Be Fire Safe: Plan, Practice, Protect – Create your Home Escape Plan
Be Fire Safe: Plan, Practice, Protect – Create your Home Escape Plan
When a fire takes hold, every second counts. In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire, that’s why having a fire escape plan is crucial for every household.
Without a plan, lives are at risk. Fire and Rescue NSW is urging the community to avoid disaster and create a home fire escape plan. You can visit their website, download the template and draw your escape plan. Once created practice it at least twice a year to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Remember, in case of fire: stay low, get out, and stay out!
Security bars can trap you, so ensure windows and doors have quick-release devices. Apartments have specific evacuation plans; learn and practice them.
Protect your loved ones by planning and practicing your escape plan today. Download your plan today: fire.nsw.gov.au/befiresafe
Protect yourself and your loved ones this winter
Protect yourself and your loved ones this winter
The 2024 flu vaccine is available now. Influenza (flu) is serious, but your yearly flu vaccine offers the best protection against getting really sick – so you can keep doing the things you love.
Getting a flu vaccine is quick, easy and recommended for everyone aged 6 months, and is free for:
•Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
•Pregnant women, at any stage of pregnancy
•Aboriginal people aged 6 months and over
•Anyone aged 65+
•People with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, severe asthma, kidney, heart or lung disease.
Book your flu vaccine today with your doctor, local pharmacy or Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) through healthdirect.gov.au/nswfluvaccine
Everyone aged 5 years and older can get vaccinated at their local pharmacy.
For more information, visit health.nsw.gov.au/respiratory